Transmission tech

President – Asia Pacific, Vehicle Group, Eaton

have grown substantially in India after the acquisition of the Kirloskar plants. We are working to deliver future technologies like valve actuation, cylinder deactivation, variable valve lift technologies, super chargers, and niche products in airconditioning as well.

Q. How would you describe your growth in India? A.

We have had tremendous organic growth. Our hands are full. Expansion is on the cards in India and other countries. Inorganic growth has also been decent, and we are looking for synergies within our portfolios.

Q. What products are driving growth for you? A.

We are having a good play with the Dual Clutch Technology (DCT). As a technology, it has been there but its technological capabilities were displayed by us and a lot of engineering has gone into it. When you drive, you will feel the quality and smoothness; that is what we have delivered in the product. We are working on a number of technologies on AMT, and DCT is one of them. We have in our portfolio the ‘Ultraship Plus’ and this technology goes to all vehicle segments. We have a technology called Cylinder Deactivation (CDA) where a cylinder can be switched off as per the load. Fuel can be saved. Cutting off the cylinder induces vibration however. We are working on this technology by working with our customers right from the design stage. We are working on engine mounts. We have expert trainers in CAM operations, and roller rockers are electronically controlled to avoid frictional losses and wear. The piston operates, but no combustion takes place. This amounts to fuel saving.

Q. How do you quantify the savings from this technology? A.

We are not able to say the exact figures, but there is a sizeable amount of saving. The entire system is managed with mechanical and electronic programming and options.